Is racism a natural response?

Question

Within most normal human beings is an instinct to support ourselves, attack foreigners, and gain the most for ourselves. Doing this alone is hard however so we form groups with people we relate to. These groups are most easily formed on the basis of skin color, heritage, and so on. Doesn't this make racism inherent?

Answer 1

It seems that the answer is yes, but this brings up nature vs. nurture debate. I live in Arkansas and racism is all around. Generally the older generations have always feared what they dont know (especially skin) and they raise their children in their image (even if not direct sometimes harsh words slip out of their mouths). As time progresses you notice a decline in racism (even though it is a very slow decline). We still have a long ways to go, but eventually (hopefully) it will be eradicated. As far as if it is inherent, it seems so, but it usually is brought about during nurturing.

Answer 2

racism is learned,it's not a biological thing,it's something that's taught,it's one of those things you learn from your environment and pick up on

Answer 3

It is as inherent as dumbassery or ignorance.  Do you think dumbassery is a natural response?

Answer 4

No. Like you said we form groups with people we relate to. That has nothing to do with racism. Racism is when you hate another race/ethnicity.

*And by the way, you know I already know who you are, lol!

Answer 5

racism is learned and in no way shape or form natural.

Answer 6

It's not natural, but cultural. We are all human beings. Many people just want to divide humankind up for their own gain or benefit

Answer 7

it's called xenophobia and it is an illness from which many europeans suffer.

Answer 8

I know that whenever I'm sitting in my living room, and my dog starts to make this deep slow growl, I always go the window, and sure enough there's a black guy walking on the sidewalk. I did not teach my dog this. I question whether it's racist, because you see, my dog is a black lab.